# hernia

/ˈhɝniə/ (US) · /hˈɜːniɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hernia
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a medical condition where an organ or part of the body pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue that surrounds it. It often causes a visible bulge and can be painful.

For teachers: a medical condition in which an organ or part of the body protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscular or connective tissue. Often involves the intestines or fatty tissue pushing through the abdominal wall.

## Examples

- He had to wear a special belt to support his hernia.
- The doctor explained that a hernia occurs when the abdominal muscles become weak or damaged, allowing internal organs to bulge outward.
- While some hernias may be asymptomatic and require only observation, others can cause significant discomfort and necessitate surgical intervention to prevent the risk of strangulation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.